Minister Bibeau launches International Development Week

February 4, 2018 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement:

“International Development Week [IDW] is an opportunity to celebrate Canadians and partners working together to create a better world. With their commitment, expertise and innovative solutions, our partners help people in developing countries to build better futures for themselves and their families. This year’s IDW theme, Partners for a Better World, invites all Canadians to get involved in building a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world.

Canada seeks to eradicate poverty and believes that the most effective way to do so is by improving the lives of women and girls. That is why we launched the Feminist International Assistance Policy: to focus our international development efforts through a feminist lens.

“I encourage Canadians—especially youth—to get engaged in IDW activities this week and be a part of the debates, round tables and events organized across the country. Youth can be powerful agents of change, and Canada is working hard to ensure that their voices are heard in all facets of government decision making and in civil society.

“That is why I will soon be announcing the organizations who have successfully applied to the 2017 call for proposals for the International Aboriginal Youth Internships and the International Youth Internship Program, which will give Canadian youth a chance to have life-changing experiences and make a significant impact abroad.

“I hope many of you join in this year’s celebration of our work and take the opportunity to learn about—and be inspired by—the results we are achieving together.

“Use #IDW2018 and share your activities and projects!”

Associated links

• International Development Week - February 4 to 10, 2018

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